Is Another Beginning a good place to start with Les McCann?

Yes, Another Beginning is recommended as a starting point for new Les McCann listeners. A soulful blend of jazz and rhythm and blues, infused with heartfelt lyricism and rich musical textures. By the time 'Another Beginning' was released in January 1974, Les McCann had already established himself as a prominent figure in jazz and soul music. This album followed his acclaimed 1969 release 'Swiss Movement', marking a shift towards more introspective songwriting while maintaining his signature groovy style.

Who is Another Beginning for?

Another Beginning works well if you're into steady pacing for reflective moments, introspective grooves for soulful connection and celebratory vibes with emotional depth.

How many songs are on Another Beginning?

Another Beginning has 8 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

Another Beginning

Les McCann · 1974

42 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A soulful blend of jazz and rhythm and blues, infused with heartfelt lyricism and rich musical textures.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Maybe You'll Come Back Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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When It's Over — Spanning over ten minutes, this track showcases McCann's deep emotional expression through extended improvisation and vocal depth, embodying the album's reflective nature.
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Somebody's Been Lying 'bout Me — This track stands out with its powerful narrative about betrayal, combining McCann's soulful delivery with sharp lyrical commentary on trust and relationships.
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Go On and Cry — With its poignant melody and heartfelt lyrics, this song encapsulates the theme of longing prevalent throughout the album, revealing McCann's ability to convey vulnerability.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong compositions and skilled performances, with a cohesive flow that invites repeated listening.

What we noticed

The first three tracks feature a steady groove with prominent piano melodies, while the fourth track introduces a more syncopated rhythm.
Each track typically features extended instrumental sections, allowing for improvisation and interaction among musicians.
The album closes with two tracks that gradually reduce tempo and intensity, creating a reflective atmosphere.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady pacing for reflective moments
introspective grooves for soulful connection
celebratory vibes with emotional depth
peaks that invite thoughtful pauses

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced instant gratification
seeking standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — Showcases McCann's evolution and reflects social consciousness, marking an artistic high point.
Career context: By the time 'Another Beginning' was released in January 1974, Les McCann had already established himself as a prominent figure in jazz and soul music. This album followed his acclaimed 1969 release 'Swiss Movement', marking a shift towards more introspective songwriting while maintaining his signature groovy style.
Stylistic neighbors: Ramsey Lewis· Horace Silver· Joe Sample

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Somebody's Been Lying 'bout Me

The singer directly confronts an unnamed accuser with a mix of defiance and sorrow.

This direct address breaks the fourth wall, pulling listeners into the emotional turmoil of the situation while highlighting McCann's storytelling prowess.